† Howard Finster
(American, 1916-2001)
"Angel", 1988
carved and painted wood
signed and inscribed recto, signed, dated and inscribed en verso.
16" x 50"
Provenance: Private collection, New Orleans, Louisiana.

A revivalist Baptist preacher, Howard Finster's spirituality and faith are integral to his artistic work. He began to receive visions as a young child after the death of his sister, was "born again" at the age of 13 and started preaching at local churches shortly after. In 1976, Finster was inspired to concentrate on creating his painted word sculptures while fixing a bicycle; "one day I was workin' on a patch job on a bicycle, and I was rubbin' some white paint on that patch with this finger here, and I looked at the round tip o' my finger, and there was a human face on it…then a warm feelin' come over my body, and a voice spoke to me and said "Paint sacred art."

Finster employed brightly painted, flat carved wood shapes and almost always incorporated biblical verses, prayers, or personal spiritual incantations to create deeply personal explorations of his beliefs and faith. He wished for the sculptures to be perceived as three-dimensional sermons. Angels, animals and cultural icons populate his art and through whatever means available, Finster's ultimate intention was to spread the word of the Lord.

Overall, very good condition. Any anomalies innate to material and technique. New Orleans Auction Galleries is pleased to issue and opinion of any lot; the absence of a condition report does not indicate that a lot is perfect condition or free from damage and/or wear.  Please understand that New Orleans Auction Galleries employs no professional conservators. All statements in any condition report, or statements taken verbally, are purely our best opinions, and not blanket statements of fact issued by this auction house.  Prospective buyers should examine each lot so as to satisfy themselves concerning condition, genuineness, importance, age, etc. Regardless of any statements made in writing or verbally, all lots are sold strictly "As Is" in accordance with section 2 of our Conditions of Sale.  No returns will be accepted on the basis of condition.